Hogmanay is the Scottish celebration traditionally held on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.
The word refers to Scotland's New Year festivities, which can include street parties, torchlight processions, concerts, fireworks, and visits between households. Edinburgh's public celebration is especially famous, although customs vary across Scotland.
One important Hogmanay tradition is first-footing. The first person to enter a home after midnight is believed to influence the household's luck for the coming year. Traditionally, a tall, dark-haired man was considered a particularly fortunate first-footer, who brought symbolic gifts such as coal, shortbread, or whisky.
Hogmanay is often linked with the singing of “Auld Lang Syne,” a song associated with the Scottish poet Robert Burns. Burns Night, held on January 25, is a separate Scottish observance, so the two celebrations should not be confused.